“Billy Bathgate” is a crime drama film released in 1991, directed by Robert Benton and produced by Touchstone Pictures. The film is based on the 1989 novel of the same name written by E.L. Doctorow.
Set in the 1930s during the Prohibition era, the story follows Billy Behan, played by Loren Dean, a street-smart teenager living in the Bronx, New York. Billy becomes fascinated by the world of organized crime and gets involved with the infamous gangster Dutch Schultz, portrayed by Dustin Hoffman.
As Billy gets deeper into the criminal underworld, he becomes a protégé of Schultz, learning the tricks of the trade and earning his trust. He becomes a trusted member of Schultz’s gang, getting involved in various illegal activities, including bootlegging and gambling.
Billy also forms a romantic relationship with Drew Preston, portrayed by Nicole Kidman, a beautiful woman who is also involved with Schultz. Their love affair adds another layer of complexity to the already dangerous and unpredictable world they inhabit.
As the story unfolds, Billy must navigate the treacherous world of crime, dealing with the rivalries, betrayals, and violence that come with it. He faces moral dilemmas and must decide where his loyalty lies as he is torn between the allure of power and the desire to escape the dangerous lifestyle.
The film is a coming-of-age tale that explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the consequences of one’s choices. Loren Dean delivers a compelling performance as Billy, portraying the character’s transformation from an innocent young man to a hardened member of the criminal underworld.
Dustin Hoffman’s portrayal of Dutch Schultz adds depth to the film, capturing the larger-than-life personality of the real-life gangster. Nicole Kidman’s performance as Drew Preston adds a touch of romance and vulnerability to the story.
“Billy Bathgate” is a gripping crime drama that offers a glimpse into the violent and glamorous world of organized crime during the Prohibition era. It is a character-driven film that delves into the psychology of its characters, exploring their motivations and the price they pay for their choices. With its stellar performances and evocative period setting, the film remains a captivating and thought-provoking watch for fans of crime dramas and historical films.
Additional Details
- Movie Studio: Touchstone Pictures
- Year Released: 1991
- Type of Movie: Live Action
- Box Office: $15.5 million
- IMDB Link
Cast
- Dustin Hoffman: Arthur “Dutch Schultz” Flegenheimer
- Nicole Kidman: Drew Preston
- Loren Dean: Billy Bathgate
- Bruce Willis: Bo Weinberg
- Steven Hill: Otto Berman
- Stanley Tucci: Lucky Luciano
- Mike Starr: Big Julie Martin
- Steve Buscemi: Irving
- Frances Conroy: Mary Behan
- Moira Kelly: Becky
Crew
- Director: Robert Benton
- Producers: Robert Colesbury and Arlene Donovan
- Screenplay: Tom Stoppard
Movie Trailer:
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